Behind the Lens

Renee L. Ferguson is an American photographer and digital painter from the heart of Appalachia in Wild, Wonderful, West Virginia. She graduated from Shepherd University with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Information and Sciences. After graduation, she spent years working in the government sector as a Network Communication Specialist and an Analyst. Renee eventually followed her heart and became the owner, designer, and main photographer behind Phinishing™ Touches LLC and its butterfly logo.

From a very young age, Renee has had a passion to express herself through communication, photography, and art. She was the student who got excellent marks in school but her report card usually included the comment, “She talks entirely too much in class.” Renee clearly demonstrates her ability to communicate as seen by the entertaining stories she includes with each picture she posts online. She enjoys connecting with people of all ages.

Growing up, she played the role of family historian, and it was here that she discovered her love for photography. Renee would sit back and wait for just the right moment when no one was paying attention before snapping pictures during family gatherings. Whether it was the smile on their face, the tilt of their head, the twinkle in their eye, or the dimple in their cheek—she always captured a memorable expression.

At a young age, she sought other ways to express her creativity—like drawing. She won an art contest in grade school and was rewarded with a trip to the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum both in Washington DC. This strong desire for drawing eventually led her to creating colorful images in Adobe and constructing keepsake digital paintings.

Renee's photography mentor and coach is celebrity photographer and Nikon Ambassador, Matthew Jordan Smith. She has refined her skills in photography, lighting, and setup from being under his tutelage. She currently services Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. The following words best describe her...ENERGETIC…SUPPORTIVE…CREATIVE...ARTISTIC...FULL OF SMILES!